King Harald V of Norway remains in hospital receiving treatment for a bacterial infection in his bloodstream. The monarch's health has worsened, the royal palace said, but he has responded to treatment despite the deterioration in his condition.
King to remain at Oslo University Hospital
The royal palace also said the king will remain at Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, and on leave from royal duties until further notice. The king was first admitted to the hospital a week ago.
A statement from the Royal Family in Oslo read: “His Majesty the King's health deteriorated over the weekend. The King is receiving antibiotics for a bacterial infection in his blood and has responded to this treatment.”
Previous health issues
This is not the first time the King of Norway has faced health issues. Earlier this year, he was hospitalised shortly after his birthday while on holiday with Queen Sonja in Tenerife, and was treated for an infection and dehydration.
Back in 2024, he was also admitted to the hospital after his heart rate dropped to a dangerously low level while in Malaysia for an official visit. He received a temporary pacemaker and returned home to undergo surgery for a permanent device.
Royal background and recent scandal
King Harald V became Crown Prince in 1957 following the death of his grandfather, King Haakon VII. He married Sonja in 1968 and became king in 1991 after his father, King Olav V, died.
Earlier this year, Crown Princess Mette-Marit was embroiled in the Epstein scandal. She then expressed her “profound regret” and apologised for her friendship with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein in a statement after increased scrutiny about her contact with him.
She said: “I would like to express my deepest regret for my friendship with Jeffrey Epstein. It is important for me to apologise to all of you whom I have disappointed. Some of the content of the messages between Epstein and me does not represent the person I want to be. I also apologise for the situation that I have put the Royal House in, especially the King and Queen.”
